Village Life (Hitchin) January 2011

VillageLife

N Weavailaow lwy ble n V in illa ge

Lifestyle | Business | Community www.villagelifemag.com

FREE

ISSUE 18: JANUARY 2011

Happy New Year

Rustic Pub Co. & Saveur Restaurant review

PhotographyTips

Fabulous and Famous Florida

PLUS LOCAL NEWS & EVENTS

• Codicote • Kimpton •Whitwell • Preston • Breachwood Green • Graveley • LittleWymondley • GreatWymondley • St. Ippolyts • Gosmore • Knebworth •WelwynVillage

James Howe Landscapes Design

Construction

Maintenance

Design Services Grass Cutting Planting Turfing Drainage Garden Clearance Brickwork Tree Work Hedge Reductions Patios Driveways Fencing Decking Rockeries Water Features Free quotation and advice.

With James Howe Landscapes, you are guaranteed a friendly, reliable and quality service.

M: 07787 517372

T: 01438 820148

jameshowelandscapes@btinternet.com

WELCOME

Welcome to January. We hope you had a fantastic Christmas and New Year and would like to welcome you in to 2011. Last year was a great year for Village Life, we grew our distribution to 6,000 copies across 11 villages and hope to increase this over the next 12 months.

It is important to us to keep the magazine locally focused so we are always looking for local stories to feature each month, if you have a story that you would like us to feature then please get in touch. We are always pleased to hear feedback or any ideas on how we can improve the magazine.

This month On Your Travels goes to Florida - the ultimate family destination, a new photography tips column begins, we have our dog training column and hear from our Clinical Hypnotherapist Marilyn Tuck. We also profile Jeremy Ward a building consultant and we visit the newly opened Rustic Pub and Saveur restaurant in Codicote. Don’t forget to email us with details of your local events so we can list them for you in the what’s on section.

Bye for now

Jose & Melanie

CALL US: 01438 216950 EMAIL US: mail@villagelifemag.com VISIT US AND READ THE MAGAZINE ONLINE: www.villagelifemag.com

CONTENTS 3:

Welcome to January

4:

Local news

8-9:

Review: Rustic Pub Co. & Saveur Restaurant

12:

Business Focus: Jeremy Ward Building Consultant

18:

Dog Training Tips: Stay

20:

Photography Tips: Lighting up the subject

24-25:

OnYour Travels: Florida

28:

What’s on in January/Take a break

PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS: 20

Where Can You Find Village Life?

Village Life Magazine is delivered to 6000 homes and businesses across 12 villages. Find us in Codicote, Kimpton,Whitwell, Preston, Breachwood Green, Graveley, Little Wymondley, Great Wymondley, St. Ippolyts, Gosmore, Knebworth and Welwyn Village.

We are increasing our circulation every month, so if you didn’t receive a copy through your letterbox, you will do very shortly.

Village Life is published monthly by MJS Publishing.

01438 216950, www.villagelifemag.com JANUARY 2011

FLY OFF TO FLORIDA: 24

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Melanie Saavedra 01438 216950 sales@villagelifemag.com PRODUCTION Dean Cook, The Magazine Production Company 01273 467579 deancook@magazineproduction.com © 2011 Village Life (Hitchin).Village Life (Hitchin) is an independent magazine and does not endorse the products or services that appear in the magazine. Opinions expressed in the magazine do not necessarily represent those of the editor or of Village Life magazine.

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

3

LOCAL NEWS

BLOOMIN’ MARVELLOUS RECORD SET IN LIFESAVING CAMPAIGN

Rotary members are celebrating now that it has been officially revealed that they have the Guinness World Record for the greatest number of people planting bulbs at the same time.

The bizarre feat was achieved when the Rotary Club of Hitchin Tilehouse recruited 636 members of the public to simultaneously plant Ruby Giant crocus bulbs for Focus on the Crocus, part of the Thanks for Life campaign. The successful record attempt took place on the 2nd October in Butts Close, Hitchin. The original record was 331 people.

Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland’s (RIBI) campaign, Thanks for Life, gets everyone involved with eradicating polio by raising funds through exciting local activities involving schools and the wider community.

Already, schools across the country are preparing for next February 23rd when the campaign will hit its peak. Thousands of school children are expected to wear purple to symbolise the dye used to mark a child’s little finger once they have been immunised against polio. The vaccine is given to little children in the four endemic countries: Afghanistan, India, Nigeria and Pakistan.

For more information, visit the Thanks for Life website here: www.ribi.org/thanks-for-life.

ARTO’S TABLE TENNIS CLUB

The Graveley based Arto’s Table Tennis Club play their home matches at Graveley Village Hall.

During the 2009-2010 season it entered three teams in the North Herts Table Tennis League. The A Team won the prestigious Premier division, finishing 11 points ahead of Warren Spring ‘A’. The B team finished 4th in Division 2 and the C team finished 6th in Division 3. For the 2010-2011 season there will be two teams. Anyone interested in following the results can do so at http://www. northhertstabletennis.org.uk/ On Friday nights Arto has been running a Graveley residents club at the Graveley village hall between 7pm and 9pm. Any residents interested please call Arto on 01462 672655.

The club is open to residents of any standard, beginners most welcome.

Pilkington Farms’ Jonathan Birchall is BBC Farmer of the Year 2010 Great Offley based Jonathan Birchall has been named BBC Farmer of the Year. He was presented with the award at the BBC Good Food Show at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham. Jon, 50, is farm manager for Pilkington Farms, encompassing some 800ha (2000 acres) of the Kings Walden Estate.

“Over the last four years we have changed our farming system from a mainly intensive arable system to a large scale extensive grazing system,” he said.

“It is immensely satisfying to see all this come

4

to fruition and a great honour to receive an award for doing something which has given us so much pleasure.”

Judging took place during a farm visit in October. Judges included former agriculture minister Michael Jack, who is now president of the National Fruit Show; and musician and journalist Alex James.

This year Jon also completed a Masters degree in Rural Environment and Land Management at Harper Adams University College, Shropshire.

He was also a runner up in the Farmers Weekly Awards for Countryside Farmer of the Year.

You can find out more about Jon’s farm by visiting www.offleyhoofarm.co.uk

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

JANUARY 2011

Looking for something a little different? newleaf may just be what you are looking for newleaf marketing communications is a full service marketing consultancy. We specialise in the design and print of promotional literature, branding and contract publishing. We also have a wealth of experience in managing media relations, online promotions, direct mail and photography.

At newleaf marketing communications we provide more than just creative skills but also the ability to listen, understand and solve complex issues quickly and efficiently.

For more information on how we can help your company call us today 01438 871968.

More than just great ideas...

Design

Print

Web www.newleafmarcom.com

Media Planning

Contract Publishing

Email info@newleafmarcom.com

Branding

Tel 01438 871968

WELLBEING

The Road Ahead…

O

ur life is like a road.Think of it as a motorway with lots of side roads.

Sometimes everything is going well and we are moving fast. Sometimes we get side tracked and end up on another motorway, other times it seems like we are way of course, have hit a bumpy road, or even a 6

road block.

So, thinking of 2010 were you on a motorway? Was your journey planned or did it seem like a pretty aimless year? For instance if you had plotted it into your Sat Nav are you now in a different place than the one you started at?

Could it have been better?

Now is the time to make 2011 better.There will be many journeys to put into your sat nav for the year and wouldn’t it be great if each one was on a

motorway taking you someplace exciting. Are you ready for some adventure?

So, thinking of yourself as that vehicle, are you a racing car, or an older model with some rust, some dints and very little power, and perhaps no spare in the boot?

It’s not much use expecting a great road ahead if the car hasn’t the power to travel it.

While a car can be replaced, unfortunately your body can’t.

You can, however, get it fixed.

The energy, which may have been scrambled, can be unscrambled, that makes a huge difference immediately.You can learn to repower yourself with decent sleep.Things holding you back like, frustration, procrastination, stress, pain, anxiety, and depression can be cleared. Other things like anger, fear, guilt and worries can be dealt with.

Weight issues, lack of confidence, inability to find a partner can be conquered if you wish. Getting rid of the pot holes and obstacles in the way opens and smoothes the road. It becomes clearer.

Success is within us all.

I invite you to come and find out how to do this, to make 2011 a far better year than 2010 - to get on the right road, to put your foot down and enjoy it.

Special offer FREE with all January bookings - All body repairing starts with a good rest.

Learn to sleep deeply every night with my special recording.Two tracks to choose from to ensure you sleep soundly, wherever you sleep.

Marilyn Tuck 07962 811907 www.marilyntuck.co.uk

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

JANUARY 2011

Emily’s Tea Shop & Waterhall Farm

ENJOY: Cream Teas, Homemade cakes, light lunches and Fair-trade beverages.

VISIT: The animals at the free open farm.

Our restored 19th century barn teashop.

DISCOVER: The farmhouse garden.

We can cater for children’s parties and private functions.

Waterhall Farm, The Valley, Whitwell, Herts, SG4 8AF. Tel: 01438 871 928

NEW YEAR OFFER

Feed the family for £15 – any sandwich plus cake plus hot drink for 2 adults and 2 children’s meal deals.

Extra child £2 • Extra adult £5 Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Valid until 31st January 2011.

RESTAURANT REVIEW

The Rustic Pub Co. & Saveur Restaurant

T

he Bell Inn Country Hotel in Codicote has recently experienced a major overhaul, a change of management and re-launch as The Rustic Pub Co.The rooms have been upgraded, the bar has been given a facelift and a new restaurant has been launched (Saveur Restaurant).The Rustic Pub Co is managed by Head Chef – Liam Kerrigan and his family who have many years experience in the hospitality industry.

Liam has had a passion for food all of his life and has worked in the Kitchen since he was fourteen years old. He has been in a Michelin kitchen from the age of fifteen where he learned his craft in a top hotel in the Ballsbridge area of Dublin; he was promoted to Head Chef when he was twenty one. A couple of years later Liam decided to move to France to perfect his skills and was the first foreigner to win a ‘Table Gourmand’ award followed by a ‘Les Routiers’ award. Liam was amazed by the

8

quality of ingredients and how food was crafted together, he spent a few years absorbing the culture and understanding how to put dishes together. Liam’s final appointment was back in Ireland working as a Head Chef for a large hotel serving 1600 meals a week. When Liam’s parents took over the Bell, they wanted to offer something special so they flew him over to run the Kitchen. From speaking to Liam, it is clear that he has a real passion and commitment to food; he is constantly refining and looking at how he can improve dishes.

The Rustic Pub serves great quality homemade food which is rustic, well presented and refined with all dishes under £10 (apart from specials). Almost all of the ingredients are sourced locally, free range chicken is used, fish is British, sustainable and from British fishermen, bread is made on the premises and they mince their own meat.The menu changes with the seasons with creative specials being updated on a regular

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

JANUARY 2011

RESTAURANT REVIEW

basis. Current specials include Pheasant, Partridge,Venison Burger with wild mushrooms and blue cheese, game pie and two fantastic steak dishes. – a 10oz Rib Eye steak (matured for 28 days) with wild mushrooms, hand cut chips, echalote sauce on a bed of Whitwell watercress for £15.95.

The other dish is a sizzling steak with pepper sauce on a bed of onions with tomato confit, hand cut chips and watercress.The pub is open daily and a breakfast is served in the mornings from 8.30am offering a rustic cooked breakfast, eggs Benedict, a breakfast bap and other mouth watering feasts to help you start the day.You can enjoy a roast sirloin of beef on Sundays for just £10.95.

The pub serves a selection of beers and real ales including a guest ale that changes regularly (currently Rudolph’s Reward).

All wine is European and includes classics from Spain, Italy and France which can be bought by the bottle or in glass size 250ml bottles; you can even buy Hertfordshire wine from Wareside Wines.

Saveur Restaurant is where Liam showcases his culinary talents; it offers Modern French and British food every evening.

There is a choice of four starters, four main courses and four JANUARY 2011

deserts which change on a regular basis. If you come in for a meal on a Monday and come back on the Saturday, you will have a different selection to choose from.There is an early bird offer every day of the week from 6pm to 7.30pm where you can enjoy two courses for two people and a complimentary bottle of wine for just £29.95.You can enjoy a Sunday lunch with 2 courses for £14.95.

There are 25 luxury country cottage style rooms available which have been recently decorated and prices start at just £45 per night.

All functions can be catered for from corporate events and corporate lunches to birthday parties and weddings. (a bridal suite is opening in February 2011. Menus are tailor made to suit all tastes and budgets and up to 60 people can be accommodated for a sit down meal or up to 90 for a buffet.

A farmers market in the car park will be starting to showcase what Hertfordshire has got to offer, there will be no cost to

traders for a stall. If you are interested please call Liam on 01438 821 600 or email rusticpub@gmail.com If you are looking for something special then you should try Saveur Restaurant, alternatively pop in to the Rustic Pub for a friendly beer by the roaring fire and some great pub food.

“The rooms were comfortable and very clean and well supplied.The staffs were very helpful and friendly.

The food was very good.”

“What a change from my previous stay, obviously the rooms have or are being upgraded, new management team since previous visit, vast change in menu, not the same place and the food a new true gastro menu extremely tasty” “Had dinner there on Friday evening and the food in the restaurant was fabulous. It was really well presented, plentiful, and exceptionally tasty.Well worth the 2 mile deviation of the A1 for a fantastic meal.Will most certainly be back sometime soon!”

The Rustic Pub Co & Saveur Restaurant, 65 High Street, Codicote SG4 8XD Telephone: 01438 821 600

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

9

The Car Agents provide a unique service to help clients buy and sell Prestige and Sports cars. Through extensive advertising, marketing initiatives, network of industry contacts and experience, they can save time, money, inconvenience and give the all important security to a transaction.

The Car Agents was setup by Simon Michell who has had a successful career in this market place spanning 25 years. Simon was the Sales Director of Specialist Cars Group for a number of years, where his commitment to customer service and personal approach saw the business grow year on year to become one of the best dealerships in the country. He has earned a reputation as someone to do business with and offers a service level that is unusual in the motor trade. Simon comments, ‘’ We are a service provider not a car dealer, our aim is to advise and help clients buy and sell their cars, knowing the fact that they are getting a full package of services that they should expect.”

There are three key areas where The Car Agents can help clients; Sell Your Car For You: No Advertising Costs, No Inconvienience, Secure Transaction, Fixed Fee. Buy Your Next Car For You: Personal Service, Get The Vehicle You Want, Trade Savings, Fixed Fee. Just Buy Your Car: 24 Hour Transaction Guarantee, Secure Payment, Confidential Service. ‘’Simon and his team did everything they said they would. Not only did my new car arrive on time, but they also called me back when I wanted them to and up- dated me regularly, which is unusual for this industry. I will use them again and tell my friends and work colleagues.’’ Kevin Neal, MD of KNA Group.

If you would like to find out more about buying or selling your next sports or prestige car, you can contact Simon on 07824 600769, email info@thecaragents.com or by visiting www.thecaragents.com

www.thecaragents.com





 

GH Building and Landscaping design has years of experience to make your imagination become a reality.

What we do...

• • • • • • • •

Extensions Porches Conservatories Refurbishments Any general building work Patios, Decking and Pathways Laid lawn and garden preparation Building wall and outbuildings

62 Sparrow Drive Stevenage Herts SG2 9FD Telephone 01438 724660 Mobile 07867 794100 To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory place call Melanie on 01438 216 950

31

BUSINESS FOCUS

Jeremy Ward

Independent Building Consultant

B

ased in Preston, Jeremy provides project management services to locations in Herts, Bucks, Beds, Cambs and Essex. He has 20 years experience of working in property including practical, technical and project management skills and has full Professional Indemnity Insurance.

Jeremy offers complete peace of mind to you as a homeowner by taking responsibility for the success of the project and offering truly independent building advice through a range of services. He can help you with ideas, advice, project management or problem solving. Every customer has a different approach to what they require from a Project Manager, as a result Jeremy can offer you a number of different options that may be suitable, but in every case he will tailor his service to meet your exact requirements.

He is dedicated to offering independent advice and support selecting the right building contractor for your project, understanding what you want from a project and builder to ensure a high quality build at the right price. Jeremy has worked with many private clients over the years and completed a whole range of building projects, he has even won an award from Period Living Magazine for the renovation of a Grade II listed cottage.

Jeremy can offer a range of services including a complete design, plan and build service where he will work with you

12

through the whole project. If you already have detailed plans or are embarking on a renovation and require a schedule of works, selection of builders and project management then he can support the renovation and build of a project. If you have a build project underway which is not meeting your expectations, he can provide project management & dispute resolution to help get things back on track. For period properties, he can help with repair & maintenance to ensure correct diagnosis of problems specific to old buildings.

Jeremy offers a full Building Health Check (BHC). From the chimney pot to the basement your property will be examined from a building maintenance perspective and a report will identify problem areas, recommend solutions and provide estimated costs for undertaking any work.Where you don’t need a Project Manager but you may need advice during the course of a project, Jeremy provides an Ad Hoc Service to ensure the project is successfully delivered.You simply pay an hourly rate whenever you need support.

Building and renovating is often complex, time consuming and expensive, but a well-planned project is an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Testimonials from previous clients

“We are absolutely delighted with your work, both in the way it was carried out and the end results.

Thank you for all your hard work, not to mention patience with my indecision!

We are more than happy to give references should you ever need them” “I used JeremyWard to help plan and project manage a house refurbishment. He was particularly helpful in ensuring we had a very comprehensive specification, and his help with identifying someone to draw up plans and obtain consents, and then obtaining and analysing builders’ quotes, was invaluable. He continued to be available to trouble shoot and his ongoing oversight provided good support as the project developed.”

Jeremy Ward Tel: 01462 438487 www.jwibc.co.uk

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

JANUARY 2011

For Whatever Your Reasons.....

Create your own unique space with....

Suppliers & Installers of Quality Hand Finished Conservatories • Orangeries • Victorian / Edwardian Sunroom Windows • Composite Doors • BiFolding Doors • Patio Doors • Soffits & Fascia Bespoke Individual Designs to suit Specialist complete design and build service from conception to completion Supply only Supplied and fitted to your own base Friendly, helpful advice on any project -

Let us turn your dream into reality

FREEPHONE 0800 0751779 ur Try o E FRlEine on oter qu

VILLAGE LIFE

Is your computer driving you mad?

Call the IT Support Specialists

• Certified Engineer • On site or home visits • No fix No fee • Same day callouts when available • Friendly and reliable service • Average fix / repair just £35 • Stevenage Based Services Provided: • Virus & Spyware Removal • PC Health checks • Optimising slow PCs • Setting up home or office networks • Upgrades - Memory, Hard Disk, Software • Repairs, Backups, Data Recovery

Call 0800 234 3412 or 07590 547 150 www.hertshelpdesk.com Herts Helpdesk 1010 HP.indd 1

14

27/09/2010 10:36

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

JANUARY 2011

Do your windows and doors need restoration, replacement or draught proofing?

Mill House Window Workshop specialises in the repair, restoration, replacement and draught proofing of timber windows and doors.

We manufacture bespoke traditional handmade timber windows and doors.

We also install heritage double-glazed units that will fit into the existing rebates of most traditional windows, providing the benefits of double glazing without changing your windows.

Contact us for a free quotation.

Mill House Window Workshop Call: 01438 871 753, visit: www.sashwindowrepair.co.uk or email: oliver.kelly@sashwindowrepair.co.uk

Oakland Blinds Ad A5 Landscape VILLAGE LIFE 02/12/10 - Version 2

Up to

our complete 50% NEW YEAR On product range . . .

OFF SALE

Sale starts Wedneday 29th December.

Rollerblinds

Verticalblinds

Aluminiumblinds

Made to measure blind specialists.

Woodenblinds

Pleatedblinds

Romanblinds

Showroom, Unit 136, Stevenage Indoor Market.

St Georges Way, Stevenage SG1 1EP.

Conservatoryblinds

A member of the BBSA.

We are opposite the rear entrance to Wilkinsons

Tel/Fax : 01438 314 263 Mobile : 079 700 34578 Opening Hours : Wed / Thu / Fri / Sat, 8.30am - 5.30pm Why not visit our website : www.oaklandblinds.co.uk

DAVID THOMAS GARAGES Service is our Business • • • • • • • •

For all your vehicle servicing and MOT requirements Latest Bosch Diagnostic Equipment Air conditioning servicing and repairs Fuel injector testing and ultrasonic cleaning Friendly, personal service from family run team All work carried out by fully skilled and trained staff We do not carry out extra work without your authority Courtesy vehicles available on request

Telephone: 01438 820 288 www.davidthomasgarages.co.uk Newtown, Codicote, Herts. SG4 8UG 1 Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950 16 David Thomas Garages HP 1110.indd Village

21/10/2010 10:46 JANUARY 2011

Village Life Advert:Layout 1 13/12/2010 13:45 Page 1

VILLAGE LIFE

25% of all treatments with this advert

www.odysseyspa.com 01438 313320, option 4

JANUARY 2011

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

17

PETS CORNER

Training Tips

T

his month we look at teaching the Stay command. It is important to make sure that the puppy is comfortable with the positions and clearly understands the commands before attempting stay exercises.

1. The puppy should be on your left hand side and get his attention. Now give the sit command.

2. Tell the puppy to “Stay” and show the puppy the flat palm of your hand, keep good eye contact with your puppy.

3. Now keeping the left leg stationary beside the dog move the right leg one step out towards your right using the command stay and continuing

to show your raised palm of your hand.

4. Bring the right leg back in line with the left and reward the dog for not moving.

5. As the dog gets used to the idea of NOT moving, gently start to move the left leg out towards the right leg that has previously moved.

6. Then return the left leg back beside the puppy followed by the right leg and praise the dog for staying.

The aim is to gradually distance yourself from the puppy so that in the end the handler can do a complete circle around the puppy whilst it stays in a steady position.

This exercise must be repeated for the down and the stand

positions also. Remember to build on good foundations, don’t move on to a new exercise or stage until the puppy is doing the exercise consistently.

Adam Fehmi, Dog Ease Tel: 07957 284406 www.dog-ease.co.uk

Let the photographs speak for themselves Old Welwyn Construction Specialists in Extensions, Renovations, Landscaping, Patios and Driveways.

Telephone: 01438 715362 Mobile: 07748 204 818 Email: oldwelwynconstruction@hotmail.co.uk 1 Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950 18 Old Welwyn Construction 0111 HP.indd Village

16/12/2010 09:47 JANUARY 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

Deep Cleaning plus Fast Drying for Upholstery, Carpets, Leather Cleaning Amtico & Karndean Floors Cleaned, Carpets & Fabric Protector Leather Renovation, Burn Retufting, Oriental Rugs & Curtains Specialist Recommended By Leading Retailers, Insurance Companies & Other Cleaners!

Professional, Reliable & Good Value for Money 25 years experience Courteous & Uniformed Operatives - not a Franchise We operate in Stevenage, Hitchin and the surrounding areas

74 High Street, Codicote, SG4 8XD

www.cleaningneeds.co.uk

JANUARY 2011

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

19

PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS

Lighting up the subject

T

Photography can be a frustrating old thing. Too often what looks fabulous with your eyes, turns out disappointing on camera. We have teamed up with David at Lens Flair Digital to bring you some photography tips to keep in mind when pointing your camera at your family. This month we look at light…

he single most important thing with photography is lighting, it’s easy on a bright sunny day however sunlight moves so you have to keep an eye on where it is in the sky. The worst thing you can do when taking photos of people is to position them with direct sunlight in their faces.You may feel that it’s the best light, but it’s very hard and direct, soon you’ll notice that everyone is squinting especially when the sun is low.

As with the example shown here, to get around this simply turn everyone around so the sun is behind them.

Instantly you can see the difference, as

20

you’ll get a lovely soft look to the shot, with no squinting. Using this method can bring beautiful results, but there are some things to remember.

As the sun is now pointing at the camera, watch out for lens flares, which is light being scattered throughout the lens like a prism.

Try to hide the sun behind a subject, building or tree. Also keep in mind that the subject is backlit so the background will be brighter than the subject. As the camera will take its exposure reading based on the brighter background, try to increase the exposure level as under exposure of the subject could occur.

David Horder Telephone: 07786 616022 www.lensflairdigital.co.uk

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

JANUARY 2011

VILLAGE LIVING

Chez Jerome French Contemporary Restaurant Now in the Good Food Guide 2011

Don’t leave it to Cupid… leave it to Chez Jerome Monday 14th February Glass of Kir Royal with Amuse Bouche on arrival.

StARteRS

Gratin of Scallops, Crab Meat and Mussels in a rich Supreme Fish Sauce Cream of Leek & Potato Soup with Stilton Sippets Goats Cheese Crumble on a Fresh Beetroot, Caramelised Red Onions, Balsamic Modena reduction Foie Gras & Chicken Liver Terrine with House Chutney, Toasted Garlic Baguette

MAin CouRSe

Filet of Beef ‘Marchand de Vin’ with Dauphinoise Potato and Vegetables Seared Seabass with a Leek & Butter Sauce, Puree Potato and Vegetables Vegetarian Wellington with Root Vegetables and Camembert encased in a Flaky Pastry Fricasse of Chicken Breast with Mushrooms and Shallots served with Risotto

Do you really know what you are looking at? We do.

Jeremy Ward

Independent Building Consultant Offering a complete Design, Plan and Build Service for all building, renovation and conversion projects including; • Assessment and Feasibility • Design Drawings and Budgetary Costings • Obtain Planning and Building Control approval • Preparation of detailed Schedule of Works • Plans and Schedule of Works sent to builders for quotes • Check quotes and references • Select builders and issue Contract of Works • Provide project plan and payment schedules • Checking progress against the Project Plan • Checking build quality and adherence to the Schedule of Works Building and renovating is often complex, time consuming and expensive, but a well-planned project is an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

DeSSeRtS

Passion Fruit Cheese Cake,Vanilla Crème Brulee and Chocolate Mousse or Assiette du Fromager and Biscuits Coffee

£44.95 per person Price includes VAT.

To secure your booking a deposit of £20pp is required.

To book please call: 01582 603310 or email us: info@chezjerome.co.uk 26 Church Street, Dunstable, Bedfordshire. Lu5 4Ru

www.chezjerome.co.uk JANUARY 2011

Jeremy Ward

Independent Building Consultant Telephone: 01462 438487 Mobile: 07958 670486 Website: www.jwibc.co.uk

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

21

VILLAGE LIFE

Peter’s Window Cleaning

Ceramic Classes & Workshops in Hitchin

2 hour taster classes only £8 including clay 6 week courses £72 including 1lb clay • Make beautiful creative pieces in my fully equipped garden studio.

• Small friendly groups with individual tuition.

• All materials and equipment provided.

• Explore methods of working with clay to create finished fired work.

• Learn all hand building methods, glazing and decorating.

• Suitable for beginners or the more experienced.

We clean Windows, Frames, Doors, Seals, Conservatories, Gutters Professional, reliable and affordable service covering all areas.

Call Peter on 07943 348 594

To book call: 07952 578335 or e-mail info@claywithcarole.co.uk.

Visit www.claywithcarole.co.uk or my facebook page: Clay with Carole.

3 Brook View, Hitchin, SG4 9NY

Want to play Drums?

ay with Carole QP 0111.indd 1

15/12/2010 10:06Cleaning QP.indd 1 Peter's Window

19/11/2010 14:5

Dan Phillips: Drum Tuition

Professional, private, one to one tuition on real drums for anyone wanting to learn to play.

For fun or something more serious. All styles.

All ages. Please get in touch for more information.

Peony Florist

Breachwood Green t (0)1438 833197 • m (0)7730 524711 e dphillips17579@hotmail.com

Specialising in wedding �lowers, beautiful, stylish �lowers tailored to suit the bride, her dress and the wedding venue. For a free consultation call Lotty & start creating the perfect �lowers for your special day.

Telephone: 01438 821 888 121 high Street, Codicote www.peony�lorist.co.uk

22

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

JANUARY 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

Ewart Price S O L I C T O R S

1st Floor, 16-18 Church Road, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire. AL8 6PS Telephone: 01707 387884 or visit: www.ewartprice.com Mike Bottomley (Partner), specialises in wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney.

Home visits can be arranged without charge.

Please feel free to call on 01707 387884 or e-mail for advice: mbb@ewartprice.com

Ewart Price: Personal…practical…professional Ewart Price HP 1210.indd 1

19/11/2010 12:48

We have extensive experience in the motor industry and service all makes of diesel and petrol cars and light commercial vehicles.

M&L Autocare

Your LOCAL garage for cars and light commercials

• Servicing and repairs • Full on site MOT service • Collection / delivery in local area • Mechanical and electrical fault finding and repairs • Valeo Clutch Expert centre • Loan car available • Tyres & Exhausts supplied and fitted We believe in customer satisfaction and good old-fashioned quality service.

Mention Village Life to get an MOT for just £35.

To discuss your requirements or book an appointment call 01462 451166 or visit www.mandlautocare.co.uk. Units 2-4 Hillcrest, Ashbrook, Stevenage Road, Hitchin SG4 7JY M&L Autocare JANUARY 2011 0111 HP.indd 1

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

14/12/2010 15:0123

ON YOUR TRAVELS

THE MAGICAL COUNTY OF

FLORIDA M

illions of pleasure-seekers can’t be wrong!

Florida is North America’s favourite holiday destination and draws hundreds of tourists all year round.The reason for the state’s popularity as a holiday destination is its all year round sunny climate. Consisting of a peninsula jetting out into the Atlantic Ocean from the south eastern corner of the United States, Florida’s uneven coastline is indented with estuaries, bays, inlets, lagoons and rivers.

After World War II, tourism development took off around the central part of the state, particularly around Tampa and Orlando which have since become a theme park paradise for thrill seekers.

The state’s biggest city, Miami, echoes the vibrancy of the rest of this holiday Mecca, with its soft white sandy beaches, crazy nightlife, numerous attractions and colourful neighbourhoods. Its famous Art Deco district and Latin American quarter are constantly packed with visitors, many of them passengers from the hundreds of cruise ships that come and go in the bustling port.Within easy access from Miami are the Everglades, a marshy grass plain resonating with wildlife and filled with alligators.

The most famous resident of this central Florida city is Mickey Mouse, the cartoon creation of 24

animated movie tycoon Walt Disney. His vision has turned Orlando and the adjacent Lake Buena Vista and Kissimmee areas into the world’s busiest, biggest and best-known concentrated theme park!

Disney bought up land in the area with the aim of establishing his dream theme park back in the 1960s. He died before the first park, the Magic Kingdom officially opened in 1971 but his legacy has taken root and is still growing. Currently the Disney Empire in Orlando includes four theme parks, dozens of smaller attractions, thousands of hotel rooms and holiday apartments, hundreds of restaurants and snack bars and even two cruise ships.

It is not only the Disney dazzle that draws visitors to Orlando; there are other attractions here such as Universal Studios and Sea World, all adding to the thrills and excitement for your once in a lifetime holiday! If you want something a little more sedate and cultural you will also find Orlando’s Museum of Art which is not just another gallery but a fascinating world of creative themed exhibitions showcasing its permanent collections of American Art, Art of the Ancient Americas and African Art. The Kennedy Space Centre at Cape Canaveral, 46 miles southeast of Orlando on Florida’s east coast is one place in this fantasyland state where fact is just as entertaining

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

JANUARY 2011

ON YOUR TRAVELS

as fancy.Visitors to the centre follow the story of NASA’s exploration of space through interactive exhibits, movies and tours.

Shopping is another great pastime that Orlando is renowned for so why not start off at one of the largest single-storey malls in the United States, the Florida Mall, which features more than 250 stores including Macy’s Sears, JC Penney, Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue as well as an outdoor shopping plaza where shoppers can enjoy all those sunny days.The Festival Bay Mall on International Drive is home to stores, a skate park, and a theatre.The Waterford Lakes Town Centre is an open-air mall featuring large chain stores, small shops, restaurants and even IMAXDigital.The Mall at Millenia boasts designer names like Betsey Johnson, Chanel and Louis Vuitton. Antique hunters need look no further than Downtown Orlando’s Antique Row on Orange Avenue where a wide variety of collectables can be found. Bargain hunters should head over to Flea World in Sanford and Osceola Flea & Farmers Market in Kissimmee where collectively more than 2,600 wholesale dealers can be found providing everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to old books, leather goods, jewellery, souvenirs and beachwear.

JANUARY 2011

A trip to Orlando wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the “Magic Kingdom”, I took my son in the summer and although he hadn’t turned two years old he loved it! The look on his face when we had breakfast with Mickey Mouse was just priceless, he even managed to stay awake for the most amazing fireworks at the end of day. Disney certainly know how to put on a show and even if you are not a fan of Mickey Madness I would still urge you to take one day to visit this park and experience the magic!

The climate is very hot all year round and can be very humid in the summer so I would suggest visiting in the spring time or towards the latter part of the year between October and December. Orlando is prone to the odd downpour but this always clears up quickly so won’t spoil your day.

Named the ‘Sunshine State’, Florida is the perfect holiday destination and offers something for everyone, whether it be fine dining, clubbing, shopping, learning about space exploration, discovering endangered wildlife, riding a roller coaster or bronzing on one of its famous beaches.

Off Broadway Travel Telephone 07932 154240, melanie@offbroadwaytravel.co.uk

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

25

VILLAGE LIFE

For Specialist Matrimonial Advice

JCS SOLICITORS Creative Floristy with a Personal Touch

Divorce & Separation Cohabitation Children

 Hot flowers from cool florists Florists for all types of events Weddings, funerals and celebrations Friendly service, free consultations.

We are a niche firm who provide a supportive and personal service during the stressful experience of divorce and family separation.

We cover Herts & Beds.

Tel: 01438 820 946

Telephone: 01438 871448 www.daizy.co.uk enquiries@daizy.co.uk

www.jcssolicitors.co.uk Hill House, 1 St Albans Rd, Codicote, Herts, SG4



aizy Florist QP 1110.indd 1 22/10/2010 15:40 

  

Moles

Rats ~ Mice ~ Ants ~ Rabbits ~ Wasps Squirrels ~ Foxes ~ Birds ~ Moths ~ Fleas   

Mobile: 07890 131174 Telephone: 01767 315101

 

 

26

To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory p JANUARY 2011

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

VILLAGE LIFE

RUSSELL DICKSON GARDEN LANDSCAPE DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

Stonework Paving Patios Terraces Walling Turfing Planting Water Features & Related Projects Call: 07833 591340 01438 821384 www.russelldicksonlandscape.co.uk e: russelldickson33@gmail.com



   

        

JANUARY 2011

      

• • •

   

 



Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

27

VILLAGE LIFE

What’s on in January Sat 27 Nov to Sat 8 Jan (Open daily, except Wednesday and Sun, 10am-5pm.)

Treasuring our past at Letchworth Museum & Art Gallery, Letchworth, SG6 3PF

Take a Break…

CROSSWORD

An exhibition of some of North Herts Museum Service treasures which are not normally on display, including paintings, pottery and costume accessories.

Sat 4 Dec to Sat 8 Jan 11 (Open daily, except Wednesday and Sun, 10am — 5pm.)

North Herts Archaeological Society 50th Anniversary at Letchworth Museum & Art Gallery An exhibition showing the long involvement of NHAS in excavations throughout the local area undertaken by Letchworth Museum and later by North Herts Museums.

4th December-11th January Cinderella at the Market Theatre in Hitchin As usual in December and January, the Market Theatre will be presenting its annual Christmas Show for children. This year it will be producing a new version of the classic fairy story Cinderella. Aimed specifically at those aged 3-8, this show is traditionally enjoyed by children of all ages!

A happy outcome to the story will only be achieved with the help of the children, their parents and grandparents. Tickets £7 — to book call 01462 433553 or visit www.markettheatre.co.uk

Sunday 9th January, 7.30-9.45pm (Doors open at 7pm) New Year Concert at Plinston Hall in Letchworth Letchworth’s own orchestra perform their New Year Concert under the Baton of William Norris. Guest Artist for this year`s concert is Christine Bunning (Soprano) who will be performing 3 light operatic peices along with the orchestra. The programme will include Beethoven`s 2nd Symphony, Overture to The Gypsy Baron, Skaters Waltz, Prelude to La Traviata plus popular waltzs & polkas. Entrance : £10.00, Concession Rate : £7.50. Tickets available from Plinston Hall Box Office on 01462 672003 or www.plinston.com

Saturday 27th November-Sunday 23rd January 2011 Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Gordon Craig Theatre in Stevenage Mirror Mirror on the wall, a Perfect Panto for one and all! Join us for this classic tale told in true pantomime style. Box Office: 08700 131 030. Time: 7.30pm — 9.45pm

ACROSS 1 Entrust (7) 5 Small thin biscuit (5) 8 Dissonance (5) 9 Projecting upper floor (7) 10 The sheltered side (7) 12 Unvarnished (5) 13 Scheme (6) 15 Become visible (6) 18 Flowed back (5) 19 Athlete (7) 21 Hinged window blind (7) 22 Slight push (5) 23 Two or more contesting groups (5) 24 Striking (7)

DOWN 1 Tapers (7) 2 Inexperienced (5) 3 Frozen water (3) 4 Personify (6) 5 Decorative covering (9) 6 Photographic film (7) 7 Synthetic silklike fabric (5) 11 Short accounts of incidents (9) 14 Quashed (7) 16 Private place with peace and quiet (7) 17 Marine mammal (6) 18 Alleviates (5) 20 Emblem (5) 22 Nothing (3)

SUDOKU

Sunday 23rd January, 2pm-5pm Folk Dance Workshop at St Ippolyts Parish Hall Come and learn to dance American Running Set. This workshop will be led

by Hugh Stewart and accompanied by live music. Everyone is welcome, with or without a partner. Entrance : £6.00 and includes half-time refreshments. Contact C Mills on 01582 881966, info@staplers.org.uk or visit www.staplers.org.uk

18 December to 22 January (open from 10am-5pm daily except Wed and Sun) Alan Bamford Exhibition @ Hitchin Museum Hitchin Museum is pleased to announce an upcoming exhibition by the artist Alan Bamford. Alan has been painting for many years, with numerous shows, lectures and demonstrations under his belt. His works, mainly in pen and watercolour, concentrate on quiet and out of the way places — corners of villages, canals and waterways throughout the country. There will be a chance to “Meet the Artist” on 10th January and 24th January (10am — midday), when he will be demonstrating and available to answer questions at the Museum. For further information please contact the Curator, David Hodges, on 01462 434476 or david. hodges@north-herts.gov.uk 28

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

JANUARY 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

Village Tree Services Village Tree Services

Professional Tree Care Services All Aspects of Tree Work Undertaken Fully Qualified and Insured Logs Available 

Tel: 01462 435 873 Tel: 01462 435 873 Mobile: 07717 744274

I H Property Services All your home maintenance and building needs Bathrooms, Kitchens, Doors, Windows, Fitted furniture made to measure,   Plumbing, electrics, flooring, Painting & Decorating,  Wall & Floor Tiling,  Garage Conversions  Your Local Friendly Tradesman  30 Years Experience 

 For a free quotation call Ian 01438 221 921  07816 390 309  ian.hall0@ntlworld.com

Mob: 07717 744 274

lage Tree Services 0310 QP.indd 1

HOME APPLIANCE REPAIRS

22/02/2010 IH Property13:46 QP 1010.indd 1

24/09/2010 09:02

To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory please call Melanie on 01438 216 950 23

25% Off

any Shampoo, Cut & Style with any Colour Service Specializing in colouring, cutting and styling full trained salon professional service at affordable prices.

“Your hair’s happiness is just a phone call away!”

07796 565 773 Valid only with this advert and not in conjunction with any other offer (limited period only)

JANUARY 2011

Repairs of Washing Machines, Tumble Dryers, Electric Cookers & Ovens and all domestic appliances.

Specialist in Hotpoint, Indesit, Ariston, Creda and Whirlpool.

SHIRON DOMESTIC APPLIANCES

Tel: 01438 720304

Mobile: 07739 922493 Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

29

SHOWCASE

Fairlight Blinds

COMPUTER PROBLEMS

Made to Measure Blinds & Curtains Home & Office Choice of Fabrics Wide Range of Blinds

Want to kick your computer?

CALL Mike for a FREE consultation

Telephone: 07889 056172 michael.ray@codicoteonline.co.uk

Please call 01438 820171 or visit our website: www.fairlightblinds.co.uk

Cutting Edge Tiling

Michael Shelley

odicote Online 0610.indd 1

To The Roof

TV Aerials and Satellite dishes installed by CAI Certified, fully insured TV Engineer.

TV / DAB Aerial installations, Sky Setup / upgrades / multiroom / remote extenders, Freesat systems, Foreign channels etc...

01462 811 150 07595 985 025 www.totherooftvaerials.co.uk

10/05/2010 18:41

Domestic Wall and Floor Tiling Service

Electrical

Trustworthy and Reliable Competitive Rates

“No job too small”

To arrange a free estimate please call Paul on: Tel: 01438 365649 Mob:07531 451255

I.B HYDE & SON ALL TYPES OF PLASTERING 35 Year Est. Family Business Internal & External Walls & Ceilings Skimmed Renovation - Lime Mortar Rendering, Pebble Dashing 01582 725266 or 07774 790400

Qualified Electrician

Tel: 01438 820 820

Mobile: 07930 243651 Email: michael.shelley@live.co.uk A member of ElecSa

Orlando Villa Near Disney

4 Bedrooms (Sleeps 8), 3 Baths, Pool, Internet, lake view. www.hibiscusfloridavilla.com from £400/week Telephone: 07831 354322

GET YOUR LEAFLETS DISTRIBUTED WITH VILLAGE LIFE

Perfect Petz & Polish

FOR JUST £30 PER 1000 For further details call us on 01438 216 950

Pet/House Sitting. Pet Services.

Domestic House Cleaning.

Tel: 07917 866840 / 01462 850161

MJS Events – The Wedding Disco Specialists Pre-event meeting as standard • Large Music Collection Background music during Wedding Breakfast • Wireless Mics for speeches • State of the art Sound & Light system • Large LED backdrop to give wow factor • We can act as your MC for the day • Professional Approach Don’t leave your reception to chance, MJS Events will ensure the perfect end to your day! Visit www.mjsevents.com or call 01438 220 558 or 07734 387 478 for more information.

30 MJS Events Banner Ad 1210.indd 1Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

15/12/2010 11:55 JANUARY 2011

Firebreather

LIMO Now taking bookings for ROYAL ASCOT – mention Village Life for two extra bottles of bubbly FREE!

16 The UltimateBus Seater Partyrts as The Party staboard soon as you Pumping Sound System Nightclub Lighting • Dance Pole LCD TVs • Music Videos Karaoke • Champagne Bar Ideal for any celebration including Kids Parties, School Proms, Hen and Stag Dos, Sporting Events, Concerts, nights out to London or any destination of your choice.

0845 643 6920 www.firebreatherlimo.com